Market Position:
Mid-size sedan, competitive segment with strong emphasis on comfort, practicality, and value
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Chrysler Sebring
Key Features:
Comfortable ride, spacious interior, fuel-efficient engine options, attractive styling for its class
Value Proposition:
Provides essential repair and maintenance data for cost-effective ownership and DIY repairs, saving on dealership service costs.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine performance diagnostics and repair
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axle assemblies, transaxle service
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, parking brake, brake rotor and pad replacement, caliper service, brake bleeding procedures
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, ball joints, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, starting and charging system, battery, fuses, relays, body control modules (BCM), power windows, door locks, instrument cluster
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor service, blower motor, climate control panel
Body Chassis:
Exterior and interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, body panel repair, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug service, belt replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, HVAC problems, using diagnostic scan tools (OBD-II)
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all vehicle systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical circuit diagrams for all major systems
Procedures Included Overview:
Covers everything from routine maintenance and fluid changes to complex engine, transmission, and electrical system repairs. Includes diagnostic troubleshooting trees.
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair information, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians
Engine Options:
2.2L Ecotec Inline-4 (L61), 3.5L LX9 V6
Horsepower L61:
144 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque L61:
156 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower Lx9:
201 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Lx9:
220 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (PFI)
Emission Control Systems:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Catalytic Converter, EGR (where applicable)
Engine Identification L61:
L61
Engine Identification Lx9:
LX9
Engine Block Material L61:
Aluminum
Engine Block Material Lx9:
Cast Iron
Valvetrain L61:
DOHC, 16 valves
Valvetrain Lx9:
OHV, 12 valves
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Driver Side Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Side Impact:
4 Stars
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (TCS) available on some trims
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, Side-impact airbags (optional on some trims), Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
Infotainment Features:
Optional CD player, AM/FM stereo, available premium audio system, optional satellite radio
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional ABS, optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Connectivity Options:
OnStar (optional, subscription-based service for emergency assistance and vehicle diagnostics)
Oil Change Interval:
7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil, refer to manual for specific oil type)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) under normal driving conditions, or sooner under severe conditions (refer to manual)
Coolant Change Interval:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years (using Dex-Cool antifreeze)
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API Service SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4)
Coolant Spec:
GM P/N 12346290 (Orange) or equivalent Dex-Cool compliant extended life coolant
Common Issues:
Occasional transmission shudder, power steering pump noise, HVAC blower motor failures, catalytic converter issues, EGR valve clogging on 4-cylinder engines.
Oil Filter Part Number:
ACDelco PF47 or equivalent
Air Filter Part Number:
ACDelco A1674C or equivalent
Brand Heritage:
Chevrolet, founded in 1911, is one of America's oldest and largest automotive brands, known for a wide range of vehicles from compact cars to heavy-duty trucks.
Model Evolution:
The 2006 Malibu represents the fifth generation (2004-2007) of the Malibu, built on the global Epsilon platform shared with models like the Pontiac G6 and Saab 9-3. This generation marked a significant departure with its European-inspired design and improved platform.
Manufacturing Locations:
Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
